Marvin Johnson vs Leslie Stewart

On February 9, 1986, Marvin Johnson and Leslie Stewart met at the Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, Indiana, to contest the vacant WBA World Light-Heavyweight Title. The event, promoted by F & F Berns Boxing and Peltz Boxing Promotions, pitted the veteran Johnson, a two-time world champion with a record of 41-5-0, against the undefeated 25-year-old Leslie Stewart from Trinidad, who entered the ring at 18-0-0. The fight was televised live on ABC Sports, showcasing a clash of experience against youth.

Johnson, a southpaw fighting in his hometown, came out aggressively, imposing a torrid pace from the opening bell. Known for his relentless style, the 32-year-old applied constant pressure, working inside with hooks and uppercuts, testing Stewart’s resolve early. Stewart, weighing in at 175 pounds to Johnson’s 174½, used his height and reach to box effectively at moments, landing sharp counters and making it clear that he was not overawed by the occasion.

The fight was competitive through the early rounds, with Stewart showing flashes of skill and resilience. However, Johnson’s pressure began to tell as the bout progressed. The relentless exchanges took a toll on the younger man, and by the middle rounds, Stewart had developed cuts around both eyes. Despite the damage, Stewart showed tremendous grit, surviving a doctor’s inspection between the sixth and seventh rounds and continuing to engage with the tenacity of a fighter unwilling to concede.

Sensing his opponent’s growing vulnerability, Johnson increased the intensity at the start of the seventh round. His unyielding assault left Stewart unable to defend himself effectively, and with vision impaired by the cuts, Stewart struggled to see the punches coming. At 56 seconds into the round, the referee intervened, deeming Stewart unable to continue. Technical knockout declared Johnson the winner, earning him the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Title for the third time in his storied career.

The fight demonstrated Johnson’s willpower and Stewart’s courage. It showed the unforgiving nature of boxing at the highest level, where experience and determination can prevail against youth and promise. For Johnson, it was a crowning achievement in a career marked by confidence in his own ability, while Stewart, despite the defeat, gained valuable experience that would shape his future in the sport.